There are two general strategies for protein engineering, ‘rational’ protein design and directed evolution. These techniques are not mutually exclusive; researchers will often apply both. In the future, more detailed knowledge of protein structure and function, as well as advancements in high-throughput technology, may greatly expand the capabilities of protein engineering. Eventually, even unnatural amino acids may be incorporated thanks to a new method that allows the inclusion of novel amino acids in the genetic code.

Proteins are involved in every aspect of life-structure, motion, catalysis, recognition and regulation. Protein Engineering: Principles and Practice provides a basic framework for understanding both proteins and protein engineering. This comprehensive book covers general, yet essential knowledge required for successful protein engineering, including everything from the fundamentals to modifying existing proteins and developing new proteins.

The book begins by introducing the main concepts of protein engineering, including: understanding protein conformation, comprehending the relationship between protein composition and structure, and potential methods for predicting a protein’s conformation.